Rumours surrounding Samsung’s upcoming flagship smartphones suggest that the company could be borrowing design cues from its biggest rival. Leaked images allegedly showing dummy units of the Galaxy S26 range have surfaced online, sparking discussion about new design choices and wireless charging features.
Leaked images reveal notable design differences
Technology tipster @SonnyDickson has shared photographs that he claims depict dummy units of three upcoming devices: the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Edge, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. While the overall look of the models remains close to the Galaxy S25 range, some clear changes stand out.
Here’s your first look at the Samsung Galaxy S26 dummies, Launching in February, and it looks like Samsung is going with a design very similar to the iPhone 17. pic.twitter.com/z581xHUxph
— Sonny Dickson (@SonnyDickson) September 4, 2025
The most eye-catching difference is seen on the Galaxy S26 Edge, which features a horizontal camera bar across the back of the phone. This design is strikingly similar to the reported look of Apple’s next-generation iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Air. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Ultra keep the vertical camera layout that has been a familiar sight on recent Samsung flagships.
These variations suggest that Samsung may be experimenting with its design strategy, potentially offering more distinct options within the same flagship series. The visual shift is already drawing comparisons with Apple’s devices, raising questions about whether Samsung is deliberately aligning its designs with its competitor’s style.
MagSafe-style charging ring hints at Qi2 adoption
Another detail visible on the dummy units is a circular ring located on the back of each phone. This feature closely resembles Apple’s MagSafe system and could be linked to the introduction of Qi2 wireless charging technology in the Galaxy S26 range.
Qi2 is the latest update to the wireless charging standard and is designed to improve alignment between the phone and charger, making the process faster and more reliable. If Samsung does bring this feature to the Galaxy S26 series, it would be the first time the company integrates a MagSafe-like magnetic ring into its devices. Such a move would mark an important step in advancing wireless charging compatibility across the Android ecosystem.
The inclusion of this feature also points towards Samsung’s efforts to ensure its users benefit from the same level of convenience that Apple customers have enjoyed since the launch of MagSafe in 2020. With more accessory makers beginning to adopt Qi2, the presence of a magnetic charging system could make the Galaxy S26 series more attractive to buyers who value ease of use.
Launch expected in February 2026
According to the same tipster, Samsung is planning to unveil the Galaxy S26 series in February 2026. This would mark a slight delay compared to the launch of the Galaxy S25 models, which were officially announced on 23 January 2025.
Although the launch is still several months away, the appearance of dummy units this early suggests that Samsung is finalising its design choices for the upcoming flagship range. If these leaks are accurate, buyers can expect both familiar design elements and fresh features that bring the Galaxy S26 line closer in style and functionality to Apple’s devices.
The coming months are likely to bring more leaks and details about Samsung’s next flagship series. Until then, the images shared online offer the strongest hint yet of what consumers may see when the Galaxy S26 makes its debut.
